MTC: From Fast Food to Fast Justice: What Lawyers Can Learn from McDonald's Kiosk Revolution?!

What can mcdonald’s self-serve kiosks teach lawyers about autmomation and workflows

The rise of self-service kiosks at McDonald’s offers valuable lessons for the legal industry, particularly in how technology can streamline operations and enhance client service. As lawyers, we can draw parallels between these kiosks and the growing adoption of online scheduling, virtual receptionists, and secure payment portals in law practices.

McDonald's implementation of self-service kiosks has revolutionized their ordering process, reducing wait times and improving accuracy. Similarly, law firms can leverage online calendaring programs like Calendly or Acuity to streamline appointment scheduling. These tools allow clients to book consultations at their convenience, reducing the administrative burden on staff and minimizing scheduling conflicts.

Streamlining Client Interactions

Online Scheduling

Virtual receptionist services like Ruby Receptionists or Smith.ai can integrate with these calendaring systems, providing a seamless client intake process. Just as McDonald's kiosks free up staff to focus on food preparation and customer service, virtual receptionists can handle routine inquiries and scheduling, allowing lawyers and paralegals to concentrate on higher-value tasks.

Secure Payment Portals

Secure online payment portals such as LawPay mirror the efficiency of kiosk transactions. These platforms facilitate quick and secure payments, improving cash flow and reducing the time spent on billing and collections. The convenience factor for clients cannot be overstated – just as McDonald's customers appreciate the ease of kiosk ordering, legal clients value the ability to pay fees promptly and securely online.

Enhancing Client Data Collection

Some frontline automation can help potential clients and lawyers ensure Pcs find the right lawyer saving everyone valuable time and help prevent aGgravation.

The screening and data-gathering capabilities of online scheduling tools are akin to the customization options on fast-food kiosks. These features allow lawyers to collect essential information from potential clients before the initial consultation. This pre-consultation data gathering typically includes names, addresses, personal identification information, type of legal issue, and relevant details. By obtaining this information in advance, lawyers can ensure that the client's legal issue falls within their practice area(s). This proactive approach leads to more productive meetings and efficient case evaluations, ultimately streamlining the legal consultation process.

Integrated Workflow Systems

Integration of these technologies with law practice management software like Clio or Filevine creates a comprehensive workflow system. This integration allows for seamless data transfer between client intake, scheduling, case management, and billing – much like how McDonald's kiosks connect ordering, payment, and food preparation systems.

Shifting Staff Resources

The screening and data-gathering capabilities of online scheduling tools are akin to the customization options on fast-food kiosks. These features allow lawyers to collect essential information from potential clients before the initial consultation, including names, addresses, personal identification information, type of legal issue, and relevant details. By obtaining this information in advance, lawyers can ensure that the client's legal issue falls within their practice area(s). This proactive approach not only leads to more productive meetings and efficient case evaluations but also allows law firms to shift staff resources away from menial administrative tasks. Instead, staff can focus on more substantive work, such as case research, document preparation, and client support, thereby improving overall productivity and service quality.

Potential Pitfalls

impersonal automation can be off putting to some potential clients

However, as we embrace these technologies, we must remain mindful of potential pitfalls. The impersonal nature of kiosks has faced criticism in the fast-food industry, and lawyers must ensure that technology enhances rather than replaces the personal touch that is crucial in attorney-client relationships. Additionally, we must be vigilant about data security and ethical compliance, ensuring that our tech solutions meet the stringent requirements of legal practice.

Final Thoughts

The McDonald's kiosk revolution offers a compelling case study for the legal industry. By thoughtfully implementing similar technologies, lawyers can create more efficient practices, reduce overhead, and ultimately provide better service to their clients. The key lies in striking the right balance between technological efficiency and the personal, trust-based relationships that are the cornerstone of legal practice.

MTC

Episode 93, Part II, Revolutionizing Law Practice. How Alexander Pakin Leverages Tech 🖥️ for Legal Success!

In this second part of our conversation with Alexander Paykin, we dive deeper into the practical applications of technology in modern law practice. As a tech-savvy commercial litigator and managing director of The Law Office of Alexander Paykin, P.C., he shares invaluable insights on leveraging cutting-edge tools to enhance legal services.

Paykin explores the transformative power of cloud computing in law firms, discussing its benefits for collaboration and accessibility while addressing critical security concerns. He offers practical advice on implementing robust cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive client data and maintain ethical standards in the digital age.

Drawing from his experience and involvement with bar associations, Paykin provides actionable strategies for attorneys to streamline operations, improve client service, and drive growth through technology. He also looks ahead to emerging technologies shaping the future of legal practice.

This episode is a must-listen for attorneys seeking to harness technology's potential to stay competitive and deliver superior outcomes for clients in an ever-evolving legal landscape.

We discuss the following question and more!

  1. What are the top three ways cloud computing has changed the way Alex's practice law?

  2. What are the top three cybersecurity concerns that lawyers should be aware of when using cloud-based services?

  3. What are the top three ways Alex sees technology continuing to shape the legal profession in the coming years?

Bonus question: What advice would you give to attorneys who are looking to adopt new technologies in their practice?

In this episode, we cover:

[02:15] - Cloud computing in law practice
[06:30] - Cybersecurity concerns and best practices for law firms
[11:45] - Client communication and collaboration tools
[15:30] - The future of legal technology and emerging trends
[20:00] - Advice for attorneys looking to adopt new technologies
[24:15] - The importance of continuous learning in legal tech
[28:00] - Closing thoughts and contact information for Alexander Paykin

RESOURCES

Connect with Alexander

Hardware mentioned:

Software mentioned:

Shout Outs - Previous Podcast Guest Jeff Richardson for His Appearance on the iPad Pros Podcast!

an ipad can be a very productive tool in a lawyer’s tool belt! - But imho its still not a laptop replacement.

Recently, previous podcast guest, blogger at iPhone J.D. and co-host (with previous podcast guest Jeff Richardson) of In The News! was a guest on Tim Chaten's podcast iPad Pros! Jeff shares his love of Apple's mobile products as he and Tim discuss his insights on the transformative role of iPads in the legal field. As technology continues to evolve, attorneys are finding innovative ways to leverage these advancements to enhance their practice. Here’s some of Jeff's insights from the interview about how iPads are reshaping the landscape for tech-savvy lawyers.

The iPad Pro: A Game-Changer for Legal Professionals

Jeff's discussion highlights the iPad Pro as a pivotal tool for modern attorneys. Its versatility and power make it an ideal device for various legal tasks, from document review to courtroom presentations. The iPad Pro's portability allows lawyers to work efficiently from anywhere, whether they are in the office, at home, or on the go. This flexibility is crucial in today’s fast-paced legal environment, where the ability to access and manage information quickly can make a significant difference.

Key Features That Stand Out

1. Enhanced Productivity with Multitasking Capabilities

iPaid Pros Podcast's Embedded Youtube Link of the interview with Jeff Richardson!

The iPad Pro's multitasking features enable attorneys to work on multiple documents simultaneously, which is particularly useful during research or when preparing for a case. The split-screen functionality allows lawyers to compare documents side-by-side, making it easier to spot discrepancies or gather information efficiently.

2. Seamless Integration with Legal Apps

The iPad Pro supports a wide range of legal-specific applications that streamline various tasks. Apps like PDF Expert and Goodnotes allow for easy annotation and organization of legal documents, while cloud-based services like Dropbox and iCloud ensure that files are accessible anytime, anywhere. This integration enhances collaboration among legal teams, allowing for real-time updates and seamless communication.

3. Superior Display and Presentation Tools

With its high-resolution display and powerful graphics, the iPad Pro is an excellent tool for presentations. Attorneys can use it to deliver compelling visual arguments in court, utilizing apps like Keynote or PowerPoint. The Apple Pencil further enhances this capability, allowing for precise annotations and drawings directly on the screen, which can be especially useful during trials or client meetings.

4. Robust Security Features

Security is a top priority for legal professionals, and the iPad Pro does not disappoint. With features like Face ID and encrypted storage, attorneys can ensure that sensitive client information remains protected. Additionally, the ability to remotely wipe data in case of loss or theft adds an extra layer of security, giving lawyers peace of mind.

5. Continuous Updates and Support

Will pen & Paper go the way of the dodo birds! 🦤

Apple’s commitment to providing regular software updates ensures that the iPad Pro remains a cutting-edge tool. These updates often include enhancements to security, productivity, and compatibility, ensuring that attorneys can rely on their devices to meet the demands of their practice.

Jeff shares that the iPad Pro is more than just a tablet; it’s a comprehensive tool that can significantly enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of legal practice. As Jeff Richardson emphasizes, embracing technology like the iPad Pro is not just about keeping up with trends but about leveraging these tools to provide better service to clients and improve overall practice management. 

Enjoy and Happy Lawyering!

Episode 93, Part I, Revolutionizing Law Practice. How Alexander Pakin Leverages Tech 🖥️ for Legal Success!

In today’s fast-paced world, smart technology has become an essential part of our daily lives, revolutionizing how we manage our homes and workplaces. Integrating smart technology makes daily chores easier and offers strong security measures to safeguard our homes and private data. From smart locks and thermostats to integrated security systems, these advancements provide unparalleled convenience, efficiency, and protection.

Today, we are joined by Alexander Paykin. He is a commercial litigator, real estate litigator, business lawyer, complex transaction attorney, and the managing director and sole owner of The Law Office of Alexander Paykin, P.C. He is a successful advocate for many complex topics because of his varied life experiences, which have enabled him to comprehend other cultures, mentalities, and points of view. Mr. Paykin's firm is designed as a high-tech, client-centered law firm that focuses on providing efficient services in litigation and complex transactions involving business/commerce, finance, and real estate. On behalf of the American Bar Association, the New York State Bar Association, and other attorney associations and groups, Mr. Paykin often instructs fellow attorneys in continuing legal education (CLE) seminars. In the first part of our conversation with him, he explains how he uses technology to enhance his overall quality of life.

IN OUR CONVERSATION WE COVER:

[01.35] Tech setup – Alexander explains his current tech setup and why he recommends investing in a secondary screen.

[07.46] Data management – Alexander explains his data management and backup strategy.

[12.58] Encrypted backups – Alexander explains their backup strategy to protect against ransomware and data loss.

[18.31] Alexander explains why he uses two smartphones.

[22.16] Safety & Security – Michael explains his approach, which combines practicality with security, showing how to keep essentials organized while minimizing risks.

[25.32] What’s in Alex’s wallet?

[30.12] Technology and daily life – Alexander explains their comprehensive smart home and office setup, focusing on convenience and security.

RESOURCES

Connect with Alexander

Equipment Mentioned in this Episode

My Two Cents: Preparing for the Future: How Legal Professionals Can Adapt to Rapid Technological Advancements

How will technological advancements impact the practice of law? 🧐

As a lawyer deeply invested in the intersection of law and technology, I understand the rapid evolution reshaping our profession. My recent experience at the MacStock 8 Conference outside of Chicago reinforced the importance of staying ahead of technological advancements. Here’s how I believe we, as legal professionals, can prepare for the changes in technology today, one year from now, five years from now, and in the future.

Today!

To enhance efficiency and client service, lawyers must embrace current technological tools. David Wilkins, director of the Center on the Legal Profession at Harvard Law School, emphasizes the importance of AI in legal practice: "Every other conversation I have is about ChatGPT and how it will impact the practice of law". To prepare, we should:

  • Familiarize ourselves with AI-powered legal research tools;

  • Adopt cloud-based document management systems[1];

  • Implement robust cybersecurity measures;

  • Learn to use e-discovery software for more efficient case preparation.

Participating in tech conferences at any level can help enhance your knowledge of the tech tools you use for work! 🤗

At MacStock 8, I presented on "Harnessing ChatGPT for Apple Enthusiasts: Revolutionizing Shortcuts, Automations, and AI-Powered Analysis." This topic underscores how general-purpose technology can be leveraged for legal applications. As I mentioned in my MacVoices interview, "I'm going to be talking about insights into using artificial intelligence for automation tools like Hazel, AppleScript, TextExpander, and Microsoft Word".

One Year from Now!

As technology continues to advance, we should focus on integrating more sophisticated tools into our practice. This includes:

  • Exploring AI-powered contract analysis software;

  • Implementing virtual law firm models to offer remote legal services;

  • Utilizing predictive analytics for litigation strategy;

  • Adopting legal chatbots for basic client interactions.

It’s not too hard to see that AI-powered tools can analyze vast amounts of legal data, providing lawyers with comprehensive insights, relevant case law, and accurate precedents. By harnessing these capabilities, lawyers who use AI can gain a significant competitive advantage.

Five Years from Now!

Looking further ahead, we should prepare for more transformative changes in legal technology. This may involve:

  • Incorporating blockchain technology for smart contracts and secure transactions;

  • Utilizing augmented reality (AR) for immersive courtroom presentations;

  • Leveraging advanced data analytics for strategic decision-making;

  • Adapting to new regulatory technology (RegTech) solutions for compliance management.

As noted by legal tech experts, "Blockchain technology is gaining traction in legal operations, primarily for its ability to enhance security, transparency, and efficiency".

The Future!

In the long term, we must be ready to embrace radical changes in the legal profession. This includes:

How will ai impact the practice of law with concepts like “smart contracts”?

  • Developing expertise in emerging areas of law related to AI;

  • Adapting to potential shifts in legal education and licensing;

  • Preparing for the possibility of AI-assisted judging and decision-making;

  • Exploring new business models that combine legal expertise with technological innovation.

David Wilkins suggests that the future of law will require a new approach to legal education: "How can we best prepare students for the new realities of legal careers in the middle decades of the 21st century?".

To thrive in this evolving landscape, we must commit to continuous learning and adaptation. This means not only staying current with legal developments but also actively engaging with technological advancements. We should:

  • Regularly attend both legal and general technology conferences;

  • Participate in online courses on emerging technologies;

  • Collaborate with tech professionals to understand new tools and their applications;

  • Advocate for technology training within our firms or organizations.

By proactively preparing for technological changes, we can position ourselves as leaders in the field, offering innovative solutions to clients and contributing to the advancement of the legal profession. As the legal industry continues to evolve, those who embrace technology will be best equipped to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead!

MTC!

[1] https://lexworkplace.com/best-legal-document-management-software/

Shout Out to Previous Podcast Guest Nichole (Niki) Black and her Article about the Apple Vision Pro.

The Apple vision pro has potential for lawyers to use them at work. 👩🏻‍💻

I recently read previous podcast guest Niki Black's editorial for the Apple Vision Pro. In light of several of my respective blog postings on the product, I found her perspective interesting and consistent with my thoughts on it.

Niki and I both recognize the steep price of the Apple Vision Pro and that alone may keep lawyers from purchasing one. But we believe it is an amazing device. We agree it has the potential to transform the mundane aspects of travel for lawyers into a more bearable experience. She, too, was impressed by the immersive experience of watching movies (in 3-D), which she deemed unparalleled compared to traditional methods (2-D). Niki highlights the device's innovative interface, which does away with hand controllers, offering a more intuitive interaction through hand movements and gazes.

I can see how the apple vision pro could one day be used for work while traveling on a Plane. 🛫

We agree that most lawyers should hold off on purchasing the device immediately. The current lack of productivity-focused applications and the anticipation of future improvements make it less essential for immediate adoption. Despite its high cost and initial limitations, Niki sees the Apple Vision Pro as a harbinger of the next computing era, particularly for tech-savvy lawyers willing to explore new technologies. I also think it could be a welcome addition to an attorney's toolbox, but I have a more wait-and-see attitude.

Meanwhile, I think you can better spend your money elsewhere. This is why I opted to buy two Samsung 27 Viewfinity S9 Series monitors over the Apple Vision Pro. I strongly believe that the Vision Pro's current lack of productivity capabilities for legal work and its novelty do not justify the investment for professional use today. My path to this conclusion (which may change over time with more productivity features and hardware improvements) parallels my personal journey with the iPad.

And yes, one day lawyers might use an Apple Vision Pro on the beach while on vacation—just beware of the awkward tan lines! 🏖️

The iPad was a significant innovation at the time of its release. But it never entirely replaced laptops for productivity needs. I think Niki and I both agree to take a cautious approach if you are contemplating it more for work than pleasure. This may change with future iterations of its applications, the device itself, and its operating system, and then it may offer more compelling reasons for adoption.

Despite its current lack of productivity features, I believe Niki and I both recognize it as a phenomenal device that could innovate the legal profession!

My Two Cents: The Future Of Lawyering: Exploring The Impact Of Apple's Vision Pro On Legal Professionals!

Has Apple's new Vision Pro created a breakthrough in augmented reality for the legal profession in the business world?

As legal professionals strive to enhance efficiency, improve client service, and streamline workflows, we increasingly turn to innovative technological solutions. One such solution that has generated significant interest within the legal community is Apple's Vision Pro.

Apple's Vision Pro is an augmented reality (AR) device developed by the tech giant, specifically focusing on aiding professionals in various fields. This cutting-edge device combines advanced optics, powerful processing capabilities, and seamless integration with Apple's ecosystem to deliver an immersive AR experience. While initially targeted at creative industries such as design and architecture, legal professionals are now exploring its potential applications within their own domain.

Apple’s new vision Pro
© Apple

I can see how this kind of technology holds the potential to revolutionize courtroom presentations, transitioning from static displays to engaging, interactive 3D visualizations. Attorneys could employ this AR prowess to project dynamic reconstructions of crime scenes or accidents, offering juries and judges an unparalleled perspective into complex evidence. Beyond the courtroom, the Vision Pro can help and possibly improve the day-to-day work (especially for people with certain health conditions or impairments[1]). 

For example, Vision Pro's potential to redefine legal research and document review is significant. It should enable attorneys to overlay case law, statutes, or annotations onto physical documents, thereby integrating digital information into the tangible world and expediting the research process. Augmented related can help improve collaboration amongst staff or when conducting depositions – giving parties the “feeling” they are all in the same room despite being miles away from each other. 

Will apple’s vision pro take lawyers in a new direction for their trial work?

Apple’s Vision Pro should provide lawyers with file management similar to any other technological device.  It should give an attorney the ability to access ?all? of the web-based tools they need – research, law practice management platform, file storage, etc. (I put the "all" in question marks as we will have to see if the devices OS has any compatibility issues.) Apple’s Vision Pro OS provides similar security as it does for its other products.  So, maintaining privilege and confidentiality should not be an issue for lawyers. Does that mean you should run out to buy one? 🧐

The Vision Pro starts at $3,499.  And it only provides 256 GB hard drive.  The battery lasts two hours.  And it is brand new.  While Apple is known for making great products, sometimes it’s not always best to be first in line to buy a new Apple product -- just like Apple is known for not being the first to create a new type of product -- just a good product after it has had some time to review the competition.

I remember how excited I was to get my first ipad - but it was no laptop killer!🙄

I remember when the iPad came first out.  It was nice, but at the time, I could not afford one.  At the time, my mother was astonished I did not have one (as I explained, I had to prioritize my spending) and was gifted one soon after (thanks, Grandma Harriet!).  Are you ready to go out and buy more than a baker’s dozen for a jury, the judge, and court staff?

The iPad is a great device, but it never became the laptop killer some were hoping it would be.  Given the cost and newness of the device, I’ll wait for a few versions before I go out and get one.

(Unfortunately, Grandma Harriet is no longer with us. 🙁 But if anyone wants to buy me one, I won’t complain! 🥳)

[1] Editor’s note: This aspect of Vision Pro (and other augmented reality devices) is beyond this editorial's scope.

My Two Cents: Happy New Year! AI Is Going To Be The Biggest Game Changer For Lawyers In 2024!

Lawyers celebrating 2024 with AI - at least according to DALL*E!

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been making significant strides in various industries, and the legal profession is no exception. As technology continues to evolve, I believe that AI will become the biggest game changer for lawyers in 2024. Law practice management platforms are already integrating AI into their software, allowing attorneys to streamline their workflows and enhance their overall efficiency. While some concerns have been raised regarding AI's potential to replace attorneys entirely, Chief John Roberts, in his 2023 report, believes that AI will not replace lawyers (or at least judges). 🤗 However, legal professionals must remain cautious of the limitations of AI technology, as highlighted by former Trump attorney fixer Michael Cohen.

AI has the potential to automate repetitive tasks and streamline complex legal processes, allowing attorneys to focus more on strategic and high-value work. Law practice management platforms are incorporating AI-powered features that assist with various aspects of legal practice, from research document analysis to contract review and client communication.

Traditionally, lawyers spend countless hours sifting through vast amounts of information to find relevant cases, statutes, and regulations. However, with AI-powered research tools integrated into law practice management and legal research platforms, attorneys can now conduct comprehensive searches in a fraction of the time. These tools utilize machine learning algorithms that continuously learn from past searches and user interactions to deliver highly accurate results tailored to specific legal queries.

CJ Roberts has an opinion about AI’s Place in the practice of law.

In addition to research assistance, AI is also transforming how lawyers manage documents. Document analysis tasks that were once tedious and time-consuming can now be automated using advanced natural language processing techniques. Law practice management platforms equipped with AI capabilities can quickly analyze contracts, identify key provisions or clauses, and generate summaries or comparisons. This not only saves valuable time but also reduces the risk of human error inherent in manual document review processes.

Client communication is another crucial aspect of legal practice that benefits from AI integration. Law firms often handle large volumes of client inquiries via emails or phone calls. By utilizing AI-powered chatbots or virtual assistants embedded within law practice management software, attorneys can provide prompt responses while managing multiple client interactions simultaneously. These intelligent assistants can understand natural language queries, offer basic legal advice based on predefined parameters set by attorneys themselves, or redirect clients to appropriate resources within the platform.

AI is not going to be replacing lawyers but lawyers who do not use AI will be replaced.

But will AI replace lawyers?  A recent federal case in a U.S. District Court in Illinois dismissed a case against the "robot lawyer" DoNotPay, Inc.  The defendant "...offers an online, subscription-based service that it claims will help consumers “[f]ight corporations, beat bureaucracy and sue anyone at the press of a button.” It offers services related to marriage annulment, speeding ticket appeals, timeshare cancellation, breach of contract, defamation, copyright, child support, restraining order"  This non-lawyer is currently free to operate.  But since it was dismissed on standing issues, I won't be surprised if this case (and others similar to it) won't find its way to the courthouse.

Despite this news, Chief John Roberts asserts that AI will not replace attorneys entirely.  He argues that while AI can assist lawyers by handling repetitive tasks or providing legal insights, the human element of legal practice, such as critical thinking and empathy, remains irreplaceable. AI's limitations in understanding nuance and complex emotions make it unlikely to replace the nuanced advice and strategic thinking that lawyers provide their clients.

But caution must still be exercised when relying on AI technology. Michael Cohen, former Trump attorney fixer, serves as a reminder that AI is not infallible. Cohen's experience with using AI-powered software for document review revealed its limitations: He provided in a "sworn declaration in federal court in Manhattan that he did not realize the citations generated by Google Bard [that he provided his attorney] were fictitious.[1] (Why his attorney, i.e., the party who signed the legal pleading, did not check the citations before submitting the pleading to the court is something I have warned about in the past.) This emphasizes the importance of lawyers remaining vigilant and thoroughly reviewing AI-generated results to ensure their accuracy.

Lawyers should be celebrating 2024 with AI as it will likely be part of the practice of law!

I predict AI to be the biggest game changer for lawyers in 2024. As technology continues to advance rapidly, embracing AI as a valuable tool while acknowledging its limitations will be essential for legal professionals in navigating the ever-changing landscape of the legal profession.

MTC

Happy New Year and Happy Lawyering!

[1] https://www.reuters.com/legal/ex-trump-fixer-michael-cohen-says-ai-created-fake-cases-court-filing-2023-12-29/